Answers to common questions about dog grooming, puppy grooms, hand stripping, daycare, home boarding and wedding dog chaperone services in Cockburnspath.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Where is Awesome Pride & Groom based?

 

Awesome Pride & Groom is based in a peaceful rural setting in Cockburnspath. We serve dog owners throughout the Scottish Borders, Berwickshire and East Lothian, including Dunbar, Coldingham, Eyemouth, Haddington, East Linton, West Barns, Tranent, Pease Bay, Thorntonloch, Innerwick, North Berwick, Duns, Gavinton and Reston. We also welcome clients who are happy to travel from further afield.

 

Do you groom more than one dog at a time?

 

Our grooming service is based around one to one care, so the appointment can be focused on your dog rather than operating like a busy production line. This allows us to consider your dog’s individual coat, temperament, history and comfort throughout their groom.

 

Are nail trims included in a full groom?

 

Yes. We check nails as part of a full grooming appointment and will trim them when they need attention and it is appropriate and safe to do so. If you are unsure what is included in the appointment you are booking, please ask us and we will explain it clearly.

 

My dog shakes when I leave them. Does that mean they hate grooming?

 

Not necessarily. Dogs can shake because of anticipation, excitement, uncertainty or the emotion surrounding separation from their owner. We often see dogs settle very quickly once their owner has left. We will always be honest with you about how your dog behaves and copes during their appointment.

 

When should my puppy first visit a groomer?

 

For puppies who will need grooming throughout their lives, early positive introductions can be extremely valuable. Once your puppy’s vaccinations are complete and they are safe to attend, we recommend introducing them to grooming rather than waiting until they are much older or their coat has become difficult to manage. Puppy visits can help them learn that handling, brushing, dryers and having their feet touched are normal experiences.

 

My Cockapoo is brushed regularly. Why are they still getting matted?

 

With many poodle crosses, a brush can glide over the top of the coat while knots form closer to the skin. Effective maintenance means working through the coat in sections and checking your work with an appropriate comb. We are happy to help owners understand how to maintain their individual dog’s coat between professional appointments.

 

Can every wire coated breed be hand stripped?

 

No. Breed alone does not determine whether hand stripping is appropriate. Coat texture and condition can change due to previous clipping, age, hormones and other factors. We assess the individual coat and will recommend the approach we believe is most suitable for your dog.

 

Can you shave a double coated dog in hot weather?

 

A double coat has important functions and shaving it simply because the weather is warm is not automatically the best solution. Coat type, health and individual circumstances should be assessed before deciding on an appropriate grooming approach. We are happy to discuss the best way to manage your dog’s coat through warmer weather.

 

What happens if my dog is matted?

 

Our priority is always your dog’s welfare. Tight matting can pull on the skin and make brushing painful. We will assess the coat and discuss the realistic options. In some cases, removing length is the kindest and safest approach. We can then help you create a home care and grooming schedule designed to reduce the risk of the same problem recurring.

 

What is different about your home boarding?

 

Dogs stay in our family environment in our rural Cockburnspath home, with access to outdoor space, countryside surroundings and daily life with us. Our philosophy is that dogs in our care should be treated as we treat our own. We can provide photographs, videos and updates for owners who would like them.

 

Will my dog be left alone while home boarding?

 

Our approach is built around including dogs in our daily life rather than routinely leaving them behind. Where we go, they go wherever it is safe, suitable and agreed. If an unusual trip or outing is planned during a stay, we will seek your permission before taking your dog.

 

Is daycare suitable for every dog?

 

Not necessarily. Daycare should be a positive experience, and suitability depends on factors including temperament, health, confidence, social behaviour and individual needs. We will ask you for honest information about your dog so we can decide whether our environment is a good fit.

 

Can my dog use grooming, daycare and home boarding services?

 

Yes, where suitable and subject to availability. Some of our grooming clients later use daycare or home boarding too. The familiarity of the environment and carers can be a real advantage for dogs who use more than one service.

 

What does a wedding dog chaperone do?

A wedding dog chaperone takes responsibility for your dog’s practical care during agreed parts of your wedding day. Depending on your plan, this can include collection, exercise, preparing them for the ceremony, transport, handling during photographs, comfort breaks, food and water and taking them to their agreed care arrangement afterwards. The service is tailored around your wedding and your dog.

 

How far in advance should we enquire about wedding dog chaperone services?

As soon as you know your date and are considering including your dog, it is worth making contact. Wedding dates are limited and a bespoke service takes planning, particularly when venues, travel, grooming and timings need to be coordinated.

 

How do I make an enquiry?

Call, text or WhatsApp 07931 223462 or email awesomeprideandgroom@gmail.com. Tell us which service you are interested in and a little about your dog so we can start the conversation.